Problem 106 - College Algebra Essentials

Question

Determine whether each statement makes sense or does not make sense, and explain your reasoning. A linear function that models tuition and fees at public four-year colleges from 2000 through 2012 has negative slope.

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

No, the statement does not make sense as tuition and fees at four-year public colleges have been historically increasing, not decreasing, from 2000 to 2012.

Step 1: Understanding the statement

A linear function with a negative slope means that as the independent variable (in this case, the year) increases, the dependent variable (the tuition and fees) decreases. This implies that according to the given statement, tuition and fees at four-year public colleges have been decreasing from 2000 to 2012.

Step 2: Analyzing the real-world scenario

In reality, the cost of college education, including tuition and fees, has been rising over the years. Data from education studies show that college tuition costs have consistently increased each year, far outpacing inflation.

Step 3: Drawing a conclusion

Given the fact that college tuition and fees have historically increased, not decreased, over time, the statement that a linear function with a negative slope models the tuition and fees at public four-year colleges from 2000 to 2012 does not make sense.